COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC announced on Saturday the club had signed Canadian winger Malik Johnson, pending league and federation approval.

“I am excited to join the Colorado Springs Switchbacks," said Johnson. "To be able to join such a great organization is exciting. I am looking forward to meeting the staff, the players, and most importantly all the supporters to create special memories at Weidner Field this season.”

Johnson made his professional debut in the USL Championship in 2015 for Toronto FC II, having come through the club’s academy system. While with TFCII, Johnson was named to the United Soccer League's “20 Under 20” in 2016. After four seasons with the Young Reds, Johnson was signed by the Tampa Bay Rowdies prior to the 2019 season, where he helped the team claim the Championship’s 2020 Eastern Conference title. This past season, Johnson played for Real Monarchs SLC, where he was named the club’s MVP after recording 31 appearances, an individual single-season high.

“Malik is an attacking player who can thrive in multiple positions. He has been a part of a few very successful teams in the league at a young age but also had an excellent upbringing at TFC,” said Switchbacks Head Coach Brendan Burke. “He is smart, humble and adaptable, and with his talent level we expect that to be a dangerous combination. The Switchbacks intend to continue display attractive, creative soccer and Malik will thrive here.”

The 23-year-old has recorded 139 appearances in the Championship’s regular season over his career and has notched 13 goals and 16 assists. Additionally, he has been one of the more dynamic wide players in the league over the past five seasons, with his 252 completed dribbles ranking third in the Championship since the start of the 2017 season while also recording 105 chances created.